The Bible says in the book of Proverbs, chapter 31 that "a woman who fears the Lord is worthy to be praised- her worth is far above that of rubies..."
Also, in the book of Matthew, chapter 13, Jesus told a parable saying, "the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a merchant seeking fine pearls, who having found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it."
Our sweet Ruby Pearl...
Her birth was amazing- God answered everyone's prayers for us that I (Holly) would labor vigorously like the Hebrew women (in the time of Moses) and not like the Egyptian women. Boy did I!!! 2 1/2 hours of labor from first contraction to delivery. Whew!!! Everything was as good or even better than I could have hoped for.
Andy's uncle Ron coined it perfectly for us in his congratulatory text message:
Proverbs 10:22- "The blessing of the Lord makes one rich and He adds no sorrow to it."
We feel so rich! So blessed! And, in leui of stress and anxiety feelings taking over my head with our new addition, I am reveling in the joy of God's blessing on our lives.
The "big" kids are doing pretty darn good, all things considered. Rosie is having the most challenging time of all of us, but that's to be expected at 2 1/2! Judah is a sweet big brother who thinks Ruby is so cute and enjoys quiet moments when he gets to hold her.
We have had so much love and support through the pregnancy, birth and recovery "seasons". Thank you to my parents, especially, who have watched our older kids, cooked, cleaned, wiped butts (more than just baby's!) and beyond. Why did it take me so long to figure out how much I needed you guys? Thank you also to our great friends and church family for loving us with visits and meals. Tina and Kristine, your birth advice was priceless and your encouragements so very uplifting. Melissa and Shilo, thank you so much for the baby shower- we are set! And, Andy, you are the best! When I was big and rotund, you told me I was beautiful. When in labor, you looked me in the eyes and told me I could do it over and over again through every single contraction. And now as a mother of three, you are my best friend and somehow I believe you when you tell me that we are rich in the Lord and so full of His blessings and joy...
Immediately upon delivery... God's peace was sincerely all over us.
She looks like she's crying, but so far, she's so mellow and content...
All 10 toes and all 10 fingers!
Stamping the birth certificate.
7 lbs. 8 ounces in weight.
She's a nursing champion- 1 hour for her first session in the hospital!
A little haggard, but feeling like I'm on the top of the world!
First bath- all scrubbed up!
"You did this to me!" takes on all new meaning when you're feeling so fortunate...
Proud Papa! (Ruby was just wondering if there were any nipples on your neck or cheek??)
